Paid Research Intern – Postsecondary Policy

About the Organization:

The Texas Business Leadership Council (TBLC) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit statewide network of CEOs and senior business executives who are committed to ensuring a high quality of life and opportunity to all Texans by building a globally competitive Texas. Through collaboration, research, advocacy and business expertise across multiple industries, the TBLC provides a voice for bipartisan insights and recommendations for outcomes on legislation, regulations, and statewide funding that impact both businesses and citizens of Texas.

Position Overview:

The Texas Business Leadership Council (TBLC) is seeking a detail-oriented, self-motivated part-time Research Intern to support its postsecondary education policy research efforts. This temporary position working 10-15 hours per week is ideal for a graduate student currently pursuing a degree in public policy, higher education, or a related field, with an interest in postsecondary education policy.

This role will work closely with the Vice President of Policy and it offers an excellent professional development opportunity to build applied research skills, create a work product portfolio, gain firsthand experience in the policy process, and engage with stakeholders including institutions of higher education, state agencies and advocacy organizations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct background research, literature reviews, and state comparisons on higher education affordability, workforce development, and postsecondary policy issues

• Track legislation, regulatory developments, and policy proposals related to postsecondary access, affordability and financial aid in Texas

• Assist with qualitative and quantitative research projects

• Assist with drafting landscape analyses, policy briefs, presentations, and summary documents for internal and external audiences

• Compile and analyze data to support policy recommendations and advocacy resources

• Support preparation for meetings, events, and presentations

• Perform other research, writing, and administrative tasks as assigned

Qualifications & Skills:

• Current graduate student pursuing a degree in public policy, public administration, higher education, economics, or a related field

• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills

• Interest in education, workforce, and economic policy is a plus

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines

• Familiarity with Texas legislative processes and higher education issues is a plus

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and comfort working in a remote environment

Please submit a resume, brief cover letter, and a writing sample to kkieschnick@txblc.org. Please note, these items are REQUIRED to be attached for your application to be considered.